Supporters Rally To Restore Voting Rights For Non-Violent Felons

A bill that would restore voting rights for non-violent felons passed a Kentucky House committee Tuesday. Today, supporters rallied in Frankfort.

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"House Bill! 70! House Bill! 70!" The chant echoed through the halls of the Capitol.

Advocates for the restoration of voting rights for non-violent felons made their voices heard in Frankfort Wednesday. A measure that would put that issue on the ballot has passed the House before only to stall in the Republican-controlled Senate, but this year bill sponsor Rep. Jesse Crenshaw says it has momentum.

"It's my belief that if you pay your debt to society, society should allow you to return as a full citizen," Crenshaw said.

One difference this year: The bill has garnered the support of U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, who is scheduled to testify before a Senate committee on the issue.

Currently, felons can only regain the right to vote by petitioning the governor.